"That sounds great. Do you have anywhere particular in mind?" I desperately hope he doesn't say McDonald's.

"Well, there's a really nice Italian restaurant just down the street," he says, "I've only been there twice, but it was great both times"

"Perfect, I love Italian"

We leave the bar and walk out to the near deserted street. It seems all the shops have closed for the night, and even the last stragglers of the downtown commuters have managed to escape the usual bustle.

Alex continues talking as we slowly walk toward the restaurant. I enjoy the long- missed attention he gives me. I wonder if he'd mind if I held...